Fenves letter says new Texas AD will not be hired soon

Texas president Gregory L. Fenves sent an e-mail letter Tuesday night to graduates explaining the decision to accept the resignation of men’s athletic director Steve Patterson and outlining the timetable for hiring his successor. In the letter, Fenves said Mike Perrin, a Houston attorney who will be introduced Wednesday as the Longhorns’ interim athletic director, will serve in that capacity “at least through August.”

Below is the full text of Fenves’ letter:

DEAR LONGHORNS,

I write to let you know that Texas Men’s Athletics Director Steve Patterson has resigned. An agreement is pending approval by The University of Texas System Board of Regents.

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Steve brought important ideas and changes to our athletics program, and I appreciate the good things he accomplished in his time at UT. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

I have asked Mike Perrin, a Houston attorney and former Longhorn letterman football player, to serve as interim athletic director at least through August. Mike is a devoted Longhorn and respected Texan who I firmly believe will strengthen relationships with and among our student-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff, students and alumni.

I want you to know that I have full confidence in Coach Charlie Strong, Coach Shaka Smart, and all our other coaches. They work hard to win with integrity and give our student-athletes the full support they deserve.

Athletics is vitally important to the Longhorn nation, shining a bright light on the university. I look forward to continued success in our programs and seeing you all at games this year, supporting our teams and our student-athletes.